Question Recommendations for convertilbe car

[Stwatso]

I a thinking of buying a car with a convertible top. Are there any special considerations for forward facing child seats in such a vehicle?

 

[soygurl]

Hi, welcome to c-s.org!

Most convertible cars don't have top tether anchors. This is not at all ideal for forward facing child seats because the top tether reduces forward head movement. Also, the backseat area of convertible cars is generally very small. Combining these two factors means that in a crash, the child's head is much more likely to impact the front seat, or some other part of the vehicle interior. Head and neck injuries are the most common injury for children riding in forward facing seats, and they are also the most likely to be serious injuries, so you can see why this is an issue to be concerned about.

If you haven't decided what car to get yet, I'd strongly consider shopping around to see if any convertibles you are looking at can be equipped with top tether anchors. My guess is no, but it doesn't hurt to check.

Otherwise, depending on the age and size of the child riding in the vehicle, it's possible they might still fit in a rear-facing convertible seat, which would be much safer for a variety of reasons. If that is not an option, might you be willing to buy a new child seat? Some forward facing seats perform well even without the top tether, and other seats can be installed in such a way that the shoulder portion of the seat belt can act as a pseudo-tether. Please let use know if you'd like any more info on these options! :thumbsup:

 

[Stwatso]

I will check if the dealer can install a tether. Failing that, how do I find the forward facing seats that perform well without tether that you mentioned.

 

[hehateme]

Hi:

Until 2 weeks ago I used to own a Porsche Boxster. I enjoyed it for many years but this year I had two little kids so I knew I will not get many opportunities to drive it. So I sold my Boxster. I still love convertibles so I chose Audi A4 Cab. It is a 4 seater/ 2 door car. I did not even know about lack of top tether in this car. There is no option to put one in either.

I live in MN and we had a warm March but April is still cold.
I have installed Radian XTSL with Angle Adjustor for a 2 year 8 mo DS1. He is currently sitting behind the passenger. I am still trying to find an appropriate infant friendly convertible seat. Even with 1 car seat it is tough to get my son strapped into his car seat. If the top is down I can easily put him in but it is a hassle to put him in when the top is up. It will get worse when I have the second car seat in this car.

I am not discouraging you from buying a convertible. It will not be as convenient with kids. This is especially true of the kids are riding rear facing.

Good luck with your search for a convertible.